"When the church tries to embody the rule of God in the forms of earthly power it may achieve that power, but it is no longer a sign of the Kingdom. But when it goes the way the Master went, unmasking and challenging the powers of darkness and bearing in its own life the cost of their onslaught, then there are given to the Church signs of the Kingdom, powers of healing and blessing which, to eyes of faith, are recognizable as true signs that Jesus reigns. All of this is portrayed in the New Testament as forming the substance of the mission to the nations. The mission is an expression of the authority Jesus has on earth and in heaven as he sits at God's right hand. It is manifest in the powers which the presence of the Spirit confers on the church so that it becomes-both in it's words and deeds--a witness to the reign of Jesus. And mighty works are promised as part of the fulfillment of the mission." -Leslie Newbigin
I have often wondered why the church so often strives to gain political power or any other type of earthly power, Jesus never did. Think about how the church has seen it's mission accomplished in the past under hostile conditions.
Early Christians vs. the Roman Empire
Modern Christians vs. Communist China
Just a few examples of the church with no "power" but relying on God and He did amazing things.
Do we trust Him to do the same now?
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